Building on Australia’s Most Accessible Beach

Published on 09 September 2026

Construction is now underway on a new Changing Places facility on the Frankston Waterfront, further enhancing accessibility at one of Australia's most inclusive waterfront destinations.

Jointly funded by Council and the Australian Government through the Commonwealth Accessible Australia initiative, the facility located off Wuxi Walk at the Frankston Waterfront is expected to be completed in time for the return of Australia's Most Accessible Beach (AMAB) in December 2026.

The project builds on the success of AMAB, which launched on Frankston's waterfront as a pilot during the 2025-26 summer season. Delivered in partnership with Accessible Beaches Australia and supported by Surf Life Saving Victoria, the program provided beach matting to the water's edge, beach wheelchairs and walkers, transfer equipment, shaded rest areas, and trained staff and volunteers to help people of all abilities enjoy the coast.

The pilot delivered strong results, with more than 456 participants across 247 groups taking part over 30.5 operational days, while a further 241 people used the accessible beach matting. More than 91 per cent of participants said the program was the main reason they visited Frankston, while almost one-third had not been able to visit a beach for more than 11 years. Several participants reported it had been more than 20 years since they last touched the ocean.

Following overwhelming community support, Council endorsed the return of Australia's Most Accessible Beach for the 2026-27 summer season, commencing in December 2026 and a corresponding commitment to provide a Changing Places facility to support the program.

Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker said the project was a natural next step in expanding accessibility on the waterfront.

"The success of Australia's Most Accessible Beach showed us that accessible infrastructure changes lives," Cr Baker said.

"By adding a Changing Places facility, we're ensuring people with high support needs have access to the specialised amenities they need to comfortably spend time at our foreshore and enjoy all that Frankston has to offer."

Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP said the Albanese Government was proud to support the project.

"Australia's Most Accessible Beach has put Frankston on the map for accessible tourism and recreation," Ms Belyea said.

"This investment builds on that momentum and ensures the infrastructure at Frankston’s waterfront continues to meet the needs of residents and visitors with disabilities, their families and carers."

State Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke MP said: "I'm proud to see Frankston leading the way in delivering accessible infrastructure that enables people of all abilities to participate in community life, enjoy our beautiful waterfront and spend more time with family and friends."

Unlike a standard accessible toilet, a Changing Places facility is specifically designed for people with profound disability and high support needs. Certified facilities include features such as an adult-sized height-adjustable change table, a ceiling hoist system, additional space for carers and specialised accessibility features that enable safe and dignified personal care.

For many people and their carers, access to a Changing Places facility can be the difference between spending a few minutes in a public place and enjoying a full day out.

By providing the specialised equipment and space needed to support personal care, the facility will make it easier for more people to enjoy Frankston's beaches, open spaces, events, and attractions with confidence.

The new facility will become the second certified Changing Places facility in Frankston City, joining the existing facility at the George Pentland Botanic Garden play space.

The upgrade also aligns Council’s Public Toilet Action Plan which was informed by community feedback.

The public toilet upgrade is expected to continue until early December. To facilitate the works, part of the public toilet block at the Frankston Waterfront car park will be partially closed during construction.

Alternative public toilets are available 270m north, at the Frankston Yacht Club behind Oliver’s Corner Cafe and 300m south, next to the Frankston Foreshore Regional Playground, ensuring visitors continue to have access to amenities while works are underway.

The facility will be listed on the National Public Toilet Map, which provides information on the location of Changing Places facilities across Australia. Further information is available via the National Public Toilet Map website or app.

For more information about Changing Places facilities, visit the national Changing Places website: Home | Changing Places

For more information about Australia's Most Accessible Beach, go to: Australia's Most Accessible Beach